Democracy has been the bedrock of India’s political system since its independence in 1947. However, in recent years, there has been growing concern about the failure of democracy in the country. Many experts have pointed out various causes that have contributed to this failure.
One of the primary causes is the rising polarization of Indian society along religious and caste lines. This polarization has resulted in increased communal tensions and violence, with some political parties exploiting these divisions to gain power. Additionally, this has led to the marginalization of certain groups, resulting in discrimination and inequality.
Another cause is the erosion of democratic institutions such as the judiciary, the media, and the election commission. These institutions, which are meant to be independent and impartial, have been subject to political interference and manipulation. This has led to a lack of trust in these institutions and the erosion of the rule of law.
The third cause is the increasing influence of money and muscle power in elections. Political parties and candidates often rely on illegal funding, and muscle power to win elections, resulting in corruption and criminalization of politics. This has also led to the marginalization of honest and competent individuals from the political process.
Finally, there is a growing sense of disillusionment among the citizens of India, particularly the youth, about the efficacy of democracy in delivering basic needs such as health, education, and employment. This has resulted in apathy towards the political process and the rise of extremist ideologies.
In conclusion, the failure of democracy in India is a multifaceted issue that requires urgent attention. The rising polarization of society, the erosion of democratic institutions, the influence of money and muscle power in elections, and the disillusionment of citizens are all contributing factors that need to be addressed. It is only through a concerted effort by all stakeholders that democracy in India can be restored and strengthened.
